Minor premiers Brothers Ipswich are the first team to qualify for the Rugby League Ipswich A Grade grand final, thanks to a 24-14 win over Goodna & Districts Eagles.
Brothers finished the season just one-point clear of Goodna to claim the minor premiership and were too good on Saturday at North Ipswich Reserve, claiming a four tries to two victory.
After dropping two of their last three regular season games, including a 34-16 loss to Goodna in Round 19, it was an impressive hit back and a timely return to form for the competition favourites.
It means they advance directly to the grand final on September 15 and will get the luxury of a bye this weekend, while Goodna must contest a preliminary final if they want a chance at revenge in a fortnight.
The Eagles were the hottest team coming into the finals, thanks to the best offensive and defensive records in the competition and a seven-game unbeaten run to finish the year.
Now, they face the prospect of an elimination final against Swifts Bluebirds this Sunday afternoon at 3pm.
North Ipswich Reserve saw both finals last week and will also host the preliminary and grand finals.
Swifts Bluebirds advanced to the preliminary final by eliminating the Redbank Plains Bears with a 41-28 win.
The Bluebirds ran in seven tries to clinch their third consecutive win. They are currently full of confidence thanks to some stellar attacking football, averaging 41 points per game in their last three wins.
* Image courtesy of Bruce Clayton Photography
Rugby League Ipswich A Grade competition – finals week 1 results
Brothers Ipswich 24 def Goodna & Districts Eagles 14
Swifts Bluebirds 41 def Redbank Plains Bears 28
Rugby League Ipswich preliminary final
Goodna & Districts Eagles v Swifts Bluebirds – Sunday, September 8 at North Ipswich Reserve - 3pm
